Zesty Refreshing Cactus Salad

Ingredients

Nopales (cactus paddles)

2 cups, diced

Tomatoes

2 cups, diced

Red onion

1 small, thinly sliced

Cilantro

1/2 cup, chopped

Olive oil

3 tablespoons

Lime juice

2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed

Salt

1/2 teaspoon, or to taste

Black pepper

1/4 teaspoon, or to taste

Avocado (optional)

1, diced for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the diced nopales and cook for about 5 minutes until they become tender. Drain the nopales and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove any residual sliminess.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked nopales, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently mix the ingredients to avoid mashing the tomatoes.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
4. Pour the zesty dressing over the cactus salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Before serving, toss the salad again and add diced avocado on top for an extra creaminess if desired. Enjoy your refreshing cactus salad chilled!